Bird Show by Susan Stockdale

 Susan Stockdale returns with another superlative read-aloud, revisiting the topic of birds.

Her previous work, Bring on the birds, focused on their interesting and unusual qualities but this title presents a whole new set of birds in the conceit of a fashion show. Blocky colored borders surround the dramatic presentation of birds wearing colored jackets and coats, yellow aprons, and "a tailcoat with curlicue flips." All these and more are presented in their natural and beautiful plumage.

Birds' tails on display decorate the end pages and a final note to the readers celebrates the wonderful feathers that are worn only by birds. Thumbnail art offers additional information about each bird, its name and habitat, and a selection of colors and patterns are given to use as a guessing game, to match up with the illustrations.

Stockdale's bold colors and simple lines, as well as her brisk, rhyming prose style, make these the perfect read-aloud for a toddler or preschool audience. For an older group, there are many opportunities for activities from practicing their own artistic talents, creating collages, or designing an animal-themed fashion show to looking for more patterns and colors in nature.

Verdict: Another excellent and informative title from this reliable author; recommended for most collections that serve preschool and early elementary children.

ISBN: 9781682631287; Published March 2021 by Peachtree; F&G provided by publisher; Purchased for the library